Screen 1 of 3
They don't sting
Stingless bees (meliponines) have a stunted sting that doesn't work. To defend the nest, some species bite or tangle themselves in your hair, and that's it.
They live near you
Many live in tree hollows, but also in cracks in walls, poles and electricity boxes. The jataí is the most common in cities: its nest entrance is a little wax tube.
They need you
They pollinate wild and cultivated plants. Found a nest? Don't destroy it or use poison: a stingless beekeeper can rescue the bees safely.